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RAC Magazine is the leading source of news, information and analysis for the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. For over a century, RAC has provided decision makers with unrivalled coverage of the latest technical innovations that drive this sector.

Toyota's 'triple hard' Hilux gets face-lift

Toyota’s Hilux, arguably the hardest pick-up on the market, has a new look and new hi-tech features for 2012

The redoubtable pick-up has been given a comprehensive re-style from the A-pillar forwards, with a new bonnet, radiator grille, headlamps and bumper, plus new wheel designs and new side bars and steps for the top-of-the-range Hilux Invincible.

The interior has been given a new look, too, with new upper dashboard design and horizontal instrument cluster that emphasise the breadth and roominess of the cabin.

The revised lay-out incorporates the new Toyota Touch multimedia unit with a full colour 6.1-inch touchscreen. The Touch package, fitted as standard to the HL3 and Invincible models also includes Bluetooth and a USB port for connecting digital music players.

The quality feel of the cabin has been improved with new, uniform dark finishes and new chrome surround for the instrument binnacle on the Invincible.

The 2012 Hilux carries forward its current engines, the 142bhp 2.5 D-4D and 169bhp 3.0 D-4D units, but these now comply with the Euro 5 light commercial vehicle emissions standards ahead of their introduction at the beginning of next year, thanks to the adoption of a diesel particulate filter (DPF).

As a result of the adjustments to the engines, CO2 emissions for the 2.5 D-4D (Double Cab) have been cut by more than 10 per cent to 194g/km, becoming best in class and combined fuel consumption has also improved by more than 10 per cent to 38.7mpg (all bodystyles).

The emissions figure for the 3.0 D-4D Double Cab automatic has fallen to 227g/km and the manual to 203g/km. Combined fuel consumption figures are improved from 31.7 to 32.8mpg and 34.0 to 36.7mpg respectively.

The standard five-speed manual transmission and the optional five-speed automatic for the 3.0 D-4D engine, exclusive to the Invincible, are also retained.

Similarly the grade line-up of HL2, HL3 and Invincible, and the choice of single, extra and double cab bodystyles are offered for the 2012 model year.

Two Transit Connect Electric vans have successfully completed a 75-mile route from Oxford to London in a convoy of electric, hybrid and low-emission vehicles, as part of the 2011 Bridgestone Eco Rally.

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RAC Magazine is the leading source of news, information and analysis for the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. For over a century, RAC has provided decision makers with unrivalled coverage of the latest technical innovations that drive this sector.